Belgium weighs military deployment in capital amid crime surge

Brussels faces a worsening security situation, prompting Belgian authorities to consider deploying troops in the capital.

Belgian Defence Minister Theo Franken described the situation as “dramatic” in an interview with Soir.

“I am always open to improving security in Brussels. The situation has become dramatic, not only in terms of safety but also politically and socially. I am very concerned about the deterioration of our capital,” he said.

Currently, street security in Brussels remains under the jurisdiction of the police. However, Minister Franken did not rule out the involvement of the military, emphasising that any deployment would prioritise legal protection for troops and ensure their ability to perform necessary tasks.

Earlier, on September 8, Belgium began deploying joint military and police patrols in central Brussels due to an increase in shootings linked to drug gang wars. Interior Minister Bernard Quentin stated that the patrols would focus on areas most affected by drug trafficking. Minister Franken expressed full support, describing Brussels as “a security disaster” and urging authorities to regain control of the city.

The Interior Ministry has allocated €20 million to install new video cameras in neighbourhoods plagued by drug and arms trafficking.

The proposal to deploy troops has faced criticism from French-speaking Socialists, who argue that a military presence on city streets would be ineffective and accused the ministers of attempting to “emulate” former US President Donald Trump.

Brussels has experienced a sharp rise in violent crime over the past two years, including frequent shootings, thefts, and street violence. The most affected areas include the city centre (excluding some main tourist streets), Molenbeek, Anderlecht, shopping streets near the Brussels Canal, and neighbourhoods surrounding the North and South stations.

Military patrols in Brussels were first introduced following the 2016 attacks on Brussels airport and the metro, carried out by an Islamic State-affiliated group also responsible for the 2015 Paris attacks. These initial patrols, based in Molenbeek, continued for over a year.

By Tamilla Hasanova